Meet Elias George, Managing Director of one of India's most prestigious projects, Kochi Metro Rail (KMRL), and the winner of the CONSTRUCTION WORLD Man of the Year 2017. On a winning note, he shared, 'Kochi is at one corner of the country and CW is the master of the construction universe. It's a great recognition for me; thank you for this honour.'

Consider this: A single rupee invested in construction and infrastructure generates opportunities worth Rs 10. In simple terms, this sector has the highest capital gearing ability, accounts for over 8 per cent of India's GDP, and generates huge employment opportunities. Wouldn't you agree that such an industry requires encouragement, motivation and, yes, appreciation?

During the current regime of the NDA government, the narrative has shifted from unclogging, untangling, unblocking to easing, simplifying, digitising, and is now in the process of shifting to acting within timelines.

These words perfectly defined the 12th CONSTRUCTION WORLD Architect and Builder (CWAB) Awards, set across a purple backdrop at Hotel Four Seasons in Mumbai on August 23. The winners' Wall of Fame with the winners' autographs only added to the glamour.